Post-Production Tips from Industry Pros
We asked our team what is one essential tip, hard-earned lesson, or piece of advice they’d share with others working in post-production. Check out their words of wisdom below.
The best piece of advice I can think to offer up is to try and focus on the end goal. Visualize what that looks like, whether it's in an edit, in production, or in writing, working towards something will help you realize what you need to do, and usually, things fall into place. - Ryan Sun, Post Producer
As a former post producer and now an EP, the best tip I can give anyone who is producing post is ALWAYS stay AHEAD of your clients. This pertains to logistics, workflow, and the creative. Over the years, I have seen many clients who are green to the post process, especially related to more complex projects involving VFX. In these cases, you need to educate them early on with an explanation that includes why the process is the way it is. This creates buy-in and helps to manage expectations. It also develops trust, which keeps clients coming back. - Mark Reidenauer, Executive Producer
Check every cut, every time, three times and then check it again. Don't be afraid to ask questions and be humble. You should always be learning. Also, be willing to share information with colleagues and junior staff. You're better together than alone, and helping the next generation should be part of everyone's plan for success. Take chances! Pitch your idea, even if you're not a "creative". Put yourself out there to meet new people. Make your own opportunities. Sure, you'll fail a bunch of times, but you'll also get some epic wins and learn about yourself along the way. Cultivate meaningful relationships and be nice to everyone. The PA you may dismiss one day will be a potential client in a few years. It doesn't take any extra effort to be kind and helpful, and you never know how it will impact someone else's day. - Sue Fallon, Executive Producer
Be as organized as possible. Whether it's projects, emails or files - your future self will thank you. Even if you are in a hurry, take the time to double-check everything. Always QC the spots you are sending out and double-check the links you are sending to clients. Don't be afraid to speak up when you feel in your gut that something might be off with what you are working on. It's better to have those discussions internally rather than them causing an issue after the fact. When you need to stay sane, take a deep breath and remind yourself that 'everything will work out.' You have an amazing team around you that you can rely on to get everything done. - Kristin Riccio, Post Producer
Speak Up! Never be afraid to call something out, to double-check, or to ask questions. It is impossible to read minds. Asking questions and speaking up not only allows you to make space for yourself in the creative circle, BUT it also curates a path to post-produce the best work. You know what they say about assumptions...makes an ass out of you and me lol. - Chloe Goldstein, Post Production Coordinator